🎓 Guide for Inclusion Coaches: Working Respectfully with First Nations People

Why This Matters 

First Nations peoples, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, are the traditional custodians of the lands and waters where we live and work. Inclusion Coaches may not have experience working with First Nations people, but showing respect and openness is a vital part of building trust and creating safe spaces in sport and community programs. 

Best Practice for Inclusion Coaches 

Acknowledge Country 

• Where appropriate, begin meetings, sessions, or events with an Acknowledgement of Country. 

• Example: “I’d like to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land we’re meeting on today, and pay my respects to Elders past and present.” 

• If unsure of the Traditional Owners, check local council or trusted sources. 

Show respect for culture 

• Avoid making assumptions about people’s cultural background or level of connection to community. 

• Be mindful that some participants may carry intergenerational trauma from colonisation, discrimination, or racism. 

Listen first, speak second 

• Approach conversations with humility. 

• Allow time and space, don’t rush or dominate discussion. 

Use inclusive language 

• Say “First Nations peoples” or “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples” (plural) rather than “Aboriginals.” 

• Respect the language people use for themselves and their community. 

Be mindful of cultural practices 

• Some cultural protocols may differ (e.g. use of names or images of deceased people, gendered roles in certain activities). 

• If unsure, ask respectfully or seek guidance from local community organisations. 

Understanding the Legal and Ethical Context 

• Australia has laws and policies that recognise and protect the rights of First Nations peoples, including protections against racial discrimination under the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth). 

• Beyond legal compliance, there is a moral responsibility to treat First Nations people with dignity and respect. 

• Racism, stereotyping, or dismissive behaviour is harmful and unacceptable,  whether intentional or not. 

Key distinction: 

• Mistakes will happen, especially for those new to this space. What matters is willingness to learn, correct yourself, and show respect. 

• Intentional disrespect or discriminatory behaviour is never acceptable and may breach both organisational policy and the law. 

Acknowledging Different Perspectives 

We recognise that not all coaches or participants may have deep knowledge of First Nations cultures. That’s okay. You don’t need to know everything , but you do need to: 

• Approach with openness, humility, and willingness to learn. 

• Respect how First Nations people identify and describe themselves. 

• Create a safe, supportive environment for participation in sport and community life. 

Your Role as an Inclusion Coach 

• Model respectful engagement by using inclusive language and acknowledging Country. 

• Listen and learn,  avoid assuming you know what’s best for a community. 

• Support participants and colleagues by valuing their experiences and perspectives. 

• If unsure, seek advice from local First Nations organisations or from Sport4All’s internal resources.